Deep Sustainability Theory
Introduction
Deep ecology is a branch of ecological philosophy that considers humanity part of its environment, proposing cultural, political, social and economic changes to achieve harmonious coexistence between human beings and the rest of living beings.
It establishes certain norms that are based on a vision of nature with a notion of reality and the place we occupy as individuals on the planet. Considers that human beings do not have the right to ignore diversity, solely to satisfy their vital needs.
Deep ecology and environmental movements
Modern environmental movements include a diversity of fundamental philosophies. All of them raise criticism of the industrial model of our society, considered partially or totally responsible for the ecological crisis that we suffer today. Deep ecology is one of the movements that radically opposes the current model. The voices of environmentalism are multiple and among them we can find:
• - Conservationists and preservationists, who are based on an anthropocentric vision. The environment and nature must be used and protected at the same time. For this current, nature has no rights beyond that it serves the interests of human beings.
• - Social ecology and ecofeminism are related to demands of the century, in the period called postmodernism. They would solve environmental conflicts by reconciling conflicts in human relationships.
• - Reformist ecology is the fight against pollution and the decrease or disappearance of resources under a pragmatic approach. To some sympathizers, it is even seen as a market opportunity for capitalism.
This branch of ecology has influenced other environmental groups, among which the pristine groups and those who support spiritual ecology stand out, in addition to having great influence within ecology as a science.
Origin and ideological positions
The expression deep ecology was coined in 1973 by Arne Naess, as a theoretical term, but it was later transformed into a movement.[1] For Naess the central points are:.